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Run-on sentences occur when writers try to combine more than one idea into a single sentence. They cause confusion because readers are not sure when one idea ends and the next one begins. Read our entry and test your knowledge with our quiz!

Allegory

Allegory is a device in which characters or events in a narrative represent or symbolize ideas and concepts. Allegory is often used to illustrate complex ideas in a more understandable way. Allegory can be communicated through symbolic figures, actions, or symbolic representation.

Allegory in popular culture: In the film “Avatar”, the entire story is an allegory for the destruction of the Native American population following the discovery of the new world by the Europeans. The native population is represented by the Na’vi on Pandora, while the invading humans from Earth represent the Europeans.

Allegory in literature: In George Orwell’s “Animal Farm”, the farm and animals are used to represent communist Russia. The dogs represent the police force, the pigs represent the government, and the rest of the animals represent the working class.

Allegory in general: In Dante’s “Divine Comedy”, Dante goes on a journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. His journey allegorically
represents the soul’s journey to God. Allegory can be found throughout Dante’s work.